Severe Economic Hardship Information

Eligibility

Students must prove that employment is necessary due to severe economic hardship caused by circumstances beyond students' control. These circumstances arose after obtaining F-1 status

Other Information

Severe Economic Hardship is designed for off-campus employment. However, it is can be done on-campus

Severe Economic Hardship is granted by USCIS in increments of one year at a time. Students need to renew Severe Economic Hardship application if necessary

Students are allowed 20 hours per week while classes are in session. Students may work full-time during break periods

Students can work in any job

Students cannot begin employment until he/she receives approval from USCIS

Severe Economic Hardship Application Process

You must apply for Employment Authorization from USCIS with the assistance of Intercultural and International Student Services staff. Please contact our office if you are struggling financially.

Required Documents:

Completed Form I-765

Copy of I-20 with severe economic hardship indication in the last page (obtain when meet with Brandyn Woodard)

Two (2) full frontal view photos (please see photo sample)

Copy of I-94 Card (Arrival/Departure Card)

Copy of passport and U.S. visa

Application Fee: $380; check or money order payable to "USCIS"

Letter in English from your sponsor explaining the unexpected hardship (if applicable)

Student letter explaining the unforeseen hardship situation, and why other employment opportunities are unavailable or insufficient. If applicable, students should attach supporting documents, for example, proof of currency devaluation in student's home country

For renewal applicants, copy of all previous employment authorization cards